The Importance of Rest: The Rest Pass

Camp New Heights is an active experience. It features a jam packed schedule that keeps campers moving throughout the day and into the evening. We understand that many campers may be coming from a more sedentary lifestyle, and this can be a bit of a shock to the system.

Last year, we had a camper who truly believed he was the only person in history to ever experience sore muscles. “You do not understand,” he told us. “This is something no one else has ever gone through. My muscles are sore in a completely unique way.” We get it. Those first week adjustments can definitely take some getting used to as a first timer.

When we looked back at last year’s camper surveys, there were countless positive takeaways. One piece of feedback that came up fairly often, however, was the desire for a rest option after lunch. We want to acknowledge that feedback and honor what our campers are telling us. That is why we are introducing the Rest Pass.

So what is a Rest Pass? Each camper will receive one Rest Pass per week. This pass can be used on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday. If a camper is feeling a bit fatigued after the morning block, they can use their Rest Pass to skip fourth period in exchange for early shower time, a nap, or quiet relaxation. Each Rest Pass may be used once per week on the day of the camper’s choosing.

We love fourth period and the activities offered during that time, and we are planning even more variety in class options this summer. That said, our campers work hard, and we want to honor and respect that effort. The Rest Pass came directly from camper feedback. This feedback came from kids who consistently give their all and are not looking for an easy way out, but who recognized the need for a little extra rest during the week. We are committed to staying adaptable in order to create the best possible program for our campers.

This type of feedback has previously led to improvements like Wednesday rest days, sleep in on Wednesdays and weekends, and our Sunday schedule. We have always sought the best ways to provide an exceptional camp experience, including adequate rest and recovery. We are excited to add the Rest Pass this summer and offer it to every camper.